Caregiver Resources

Our caregiver resource specialists provide valuable assistance to family and friends who are caring for an older adult. Who is a caregiver? Generally, caregivers are adult family members or another individual who provides unpaid help with day-to-day activities for someone who is age 60 or older.

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Taking Care of You… Powerful Tools for Caregiving

The role of a caregiver for older adults can be challenging and rewarding at the same time. The Northwestern Illinois Area Agency on Aging has developed a straight-forward 6-week scripted program for caregivers that will provide you with tools and strategies to better handle the unique challenges you face.

“Taking Care of You… Powerful Tools for Caregiving” (PTC) is designed to reduce personal stress, change negative self-talk and address the need for effective communication. The program demonstrates how to communicate your needs with family members and healthcare providers, communicate more realistically in challenging situations and in making tough caregiving decisions.

Studies have shown that caregivers are at risk for depression and stress-related illnesses. The PTC program has shown positive results in giving caregivers the abilities needed to take better care of themselves and to feel a renewed confidence in providing the best possible care.

If you are interested in learning more about the Powerful Tools Program, call your Senior Resource Center in Stephenson County at 815-235-9777, or 815-777-1316 in Jo Daviess County for next date and time for classes, or visit our Contact page with any comments or questions.

Caregiver Resource Links

Our caregiver resource specialists are available to help identify and link caregivers to local services for themselves or for their loved ones.

Caregiver Education and Support Groups

Caregivers can feel overwhelmed and concerned about not having enough time for themselves. Caregiver support groups give you a time to relax and share your concerns with others who have experienced the same problems. The Senior Resource Center offers classes and information on caregiving support groups in the area.

Caregiver Respite

Respite service provides appropriate temporary care or supervision to persons 60 and over. Our resource specialists are available to locate respite services based on available funding.

Call your Senior Resource Center at 815-235-9777 in Stephenson County, or 815-777-1316 in Jo Daviess County for more information. Visit our Contact page for any comments or questions.